Apr 23, 2020 60 DAYS PROGRAMME-PRELIMS 2020

IASbaba’s 60 Day Plan [Day - 46]- IAS Prelims Test Series 2020 ECONOMICS & CURRENT AFFAIRS

ARCHIVES OF 60 DAY PLAN STRATEGY [VIDEO]: UPSC IAS Preparation Guidance/Tips from Mohan Sir  Dear Students, The 60 Days Training has finally begun:) DAY 46 is here! It is time to Introspect, Ideate and Improve!! We have come-up with articles to instil confidence, motivate you in the present situation. Do read these articles. Mark the words/lines in your dairy. These very lines can be the driving force’ in the time of uncertainty. [STRATEGY] MUST READ: 21 Days of Lockdown-What to do? Introspect, Ideate and Improve !! MUST READ: PRELIMS in Testing Times – Don’t Forget the ‘WHY’; IASbaba’s dedicated HOTLINE for Aspirants and Prelims Postponing Rumours Coronavirus[VIDEO]: Awareness, Myths, Solidarity and Message to All UPSC Aspirants by Mohan Sir Founder IASbaba   To ensure that your preparation goes smoothly and keeping up with our promise, we have come up with a Dedicated HOTLINE (Communication channel) - Connect with BABA for all UPSC/IAS Aspirants. From today, you will be able to speak with the Founders and Core Team of IASbaba on telephone regarding ‘any queries’ related to UPSC preparation in general or Subject-specific doubts. This Hotline, will be in addition to the 'ASK YOUR BABA' (#ASKBABA) thread opened on a daily basis for our 60 Day plan. We will try to make sure that with so much going around these days, you have at least one less thing to worry about.   How to make use of HOTLINE and ASK YOUR BABA (#ASKBABA)? There are 2 initiatives which will be running parallely. 1. HOTLINE - Connect with BABA (5pm - 7pm) The communication channel will be open ONLY for 2 hours Daily (except on Sundays - holiday) from 5pm to 7 pm. Please do not make calls before or after the specified time. As we will be occupied with other daily initiatives running on the website and mentorship. Hope you understand our time constraints. Please note that, call facilities are mainly for queries related to preparation per se like strategies, difficulties in reading a subject, what to read, what not to read, how to manage time, revision, motivation etc. You can call on the numbers given below. For any queries related to - UPSC Preparation (Prelims, Mains, Interview) Strategy & Current Affairs – contact 9986190082 Environment & Science and Technology – contact 9986193016 Polity & Economics – contact 9899291288 Geography & History – contact 9591106864 We have separated General Strategy (Preparation per se – Pre, Mains, Interview) and Current Affairs from other subjects. You can make use of the HOTLINE, as per your needs.   2. ASK YOUR BABA (#ASKBABA) - clear your doubts on the 60 Day Platform (Online from 11 am - 10 pm) Use the disqus comment section of that particular day (60 Day post - For Ex: Today is Day 25) to clear all your subject specific doubts of the day. You can post your queries/doubts with #ASKBABA !! Here, doubts related to the 60 day questions or conceptual clarity in a particular subject can be asked. Your doubts will be cleared on real-time basis (or max within hour it will be answered from the subject experts) If you are genuinely finding difficulty interms of preparing with that particular subject, then you can use 5pm-7pm window to make calls. If you are not able to speak to IASbaba's Team, then you can still post your doubts/queries in the same post of the 60 day initiative. As mentioned above, your doubts will be cleared on real-time basis (or max within hour it will be answered from the subject experts). Make the best use of the communication channel (Ask Your Baba/comment section on daily 60 Day post and calls) provided. We will make sure that, all your queries will be answered to. So we have  tried our bit, to ensure your preparation goes smoothly, you can do your bit by keeping in touch with us via phone/ website to keep yourself going, keep yourself engaged and staying positive during the rough times.   How to make the maximum use of this HOTLINE and #ASKBABA (Disqus comment of 60 Day Plan) on Daily basis? Now, that I have solved 30 mcq’s, what to do next?  How to Analyse my Performance? For Answers to the above Questions  ->CONNECT WITH BABA: IASbaba’s Dedicated HOTLINE for UPSC/IAS Aspirants !!   Note- Download the OMR Sheet and attempt the questions exactly like UPSC Prelims. After you are done, please post your OMR in the comment section. Once the solution key is released (5 PM), cross-check the answers and again, comment the marks (you got) in the same comment thread. This will keep you responsible and sincere in days to come. Also, we need more sets of scores for releasing the cut offs in the night so, requesting all of you to sincerely put your scores in comment section.    You can also take part in discussion with peers.   Q.1) Which of the following forms the invisible account of the Balance of Payments of a country? International trade in services. Interest on loans. Remittance of worker income. Choose the correct answer using the codes given below 1 and 2 only 1 and 3 only 2 and 3 only All of the above Q.1) निम्नलिखित में से कौन, देश के भुगतान संतुलन का अदृश्य खाता (invisible account) है? सेवाओं में अंतर्राष्ट्रीय व्यापार। ऋण पर ब्याज। श्रमिक आय का प्रेषण। नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें केवल 1 और 2 केवल 1 और 3 केवल 2 और 3 उपरोक्त सभी Q.2)  Which of the following is a part of the capital account of a country? Export and import of goods Export and import of services NRI deposits Unilateral transfers from one country to another Q.2) निम्नलिखित में से कौन सा, देश के पूंजीगत खाते का एक हिस्सा है? माल का निर्यात और आयात सेवाओं का निर्यात और आयात एनआरआई जमा एक देश से दूसरे देश में एकतरफा स्थानांतरण Q.3) Consider the following statements regarding Special Drawing Rights (SDR) holdings The SDR holdings of member countries are allocated by the World Bank. The SDR holdings form a component of Foreign exchange reserve of a country. Choose the correct answer using the codes given below 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) विशेष आहरण अधिकार (SDR) होल्डिंग्स के बारे में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें सदस्य देशों की एसडीआर होल्डिंग्स को विश्व बैंक द्वारा आवंटित किया जाता है। एसडीआर होल्डिंग्स किसी देश के विदेशी मुद्रा रिजर्व का एक घटक होते हैं। नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें केवल 1 केवल 2  1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.4) Consider the following statements regarding External Commercial Borrowing (ECB) ECB is a loan availed by an Indian entity from a non-resident lender. ECBs cannot be used for investment in the stock market or speculation in real estate. Public Sector Enterprises are not eligible for External commercial borrowing. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 and 2 only 1 and 3 only 2 and 3 only All of the above Q.4) बाह्य वाणिज्यिक उधार (ईसीबी) के बारे में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें। ईसीबी एक अनिवासी ऋणदाता से भारतीय इकाई द्वारा लिया गया ऋण है। ईसीबी का उपयोग शेयर बाजार में निवेश या रियल स्टेट में सट्टेबाज़ी (speculation) के लिए नहीं किया जा सकता है। सार्वजनिक क्षेत्र के उद्यम, बाह्य वाणिज्यिक उधार के लिए पात्र नहीं हैं। ऊपर दिए गए कथनों में से कौन सा सही है / हैं? केवल 1 और 2 केवल 1 और 3 केवल 2 और 3 उपरोक्त सभी Q.5) If a country has a Capital account deficit, it means that The Country is buying assets in other countries. Foreigners are buying assets in the country. Countries liability to foreigners is increasing. Value of import of Invisibles of the country exceeds the value of its exports. Q.5) यदि किसी देश के पास पूंजीगत खाता घाटा (Capital account deficit) है, तो इसका अर्थ है कि देश अन्य देशों में परिसंपत्ति खरीद रहा है। देश में विदेशी लोग परिसंपत्ति खरीद रहे हैं। विदेशियों के प्रति देश की देयता बढ़ रही है। देश के अदृश्य आयात का मूल्य, इसके निर्यात के मूल्य से अधिक है। Q.6) Which of the following are advantages of having full capital convertibility in India? Reduces volatility of currency. Increasing the confidence of foreign investors. Improved access to foreign markets. Choose the correct answer using the codes given below 1 and 2 only 1 and 3 only 2 and 3 only All of the above Q.6) भारत में पूर्ण पूंजी परिवर्तनीयता (full capital convertibility) होने के निम्नलिखित में से कौन से लाभ हैं? मुद्रा की अस्थिरता को कम करता है। विदेशी निवेशकों का विश्वास बढ़ाता है। विदेशी बाजारों तक बेहतर पहुंच होती है। नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें केवल 1 और 2 केवल 1 और 3 केवल 2 और 3 उपरोक्त सभी Q.7) Which of the following are effects of the depreciation of currency? Imported goods become more expensive. Increase in inflation. Increased demand for goods in International market. Choose the correct answer using the codes given below 1 and 2 only 1 and 3 only 2 and 3 only All of the above Q.7) मुद्रा के मूल्यह्रास (depreciation of currency) के निम्नलिखित में से कौन से प्रभाव हैं? आयातित सामान अधिक महंगे हो जाते हैं। मुद्रास्फीति में वृद्धि। अंतर्राष्ट्रीय बाजार में माल की मांग में वृद्धि। नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें केवल 1 और 2 केवल 1 और 3 केवल 2 और 3 उपरोक्त सभी Q.8) India’s foreign exchange reserves consist of Foreign currency assets held by RBI. Foreign currency assets held by individual citizens. Gold stock by RBI. Choose the correct answer using the codes given below 1 and 2 only 1 and 3 only 2 and 3 only All of the above Q.8) भारत के विदेशी मुद्रा भंडार ( foreign exchange reserves) में शामिल हैं RBI के पास विदेशी मुद्रा आस्तियाँ। व्यक्तिगत नागरिकों द्वारा आयोजित विदेशी मुद्रा संपत्ति। RBI के पास स्वर्ण भंडार। नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें केवल 1 और 2 केवल 1 और 3 केवल 2 और 3 उपरोक्त सभी Q.9) Consider the following statements regarding Agriculture Export Policy 2018 It aims to double agricultural exports by 2022. Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers welfare is the nodal ministry for its implementation Choose the correct answer using the codes given below 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.9) कृषि निर्यात नीति 2018 के बारे में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें इसका लक्ष्य 2022 तक कृषि निर्यात को दोगुना करना है। कृषि और किसान कल्याण मंत्रालय इसके कार्यान्वयन के लिए नोडल मंत्रालय है नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें केवल 1 केवल 2  1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.10) Consider the following statements about Export-Import Bank (EXIM) EXIM Bank was created by an Act of Parliament. Bank’s primary objective is to assist importers and exporters of the country. Which of the above statement/s is/are incorrect? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.10) निर्यात-आयात बैंक (EXIM) के बारे में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें। EXIM बैंक संसद के एक अधिनियम द्वारा बनाया गया था। बैंक का प्राथमिक उद्देश्य देश के आयातकों और निर्यातकों की सहायता करना है। उपरोक्त कथनों में से कौन गलत है / हैं? केवल 1 केवल 2  1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.11) The 7th Trade policy review of India is scheduled to be conducted in September 2020. Which of the following organizations conduct the Trade policy review? World Trade Organization World Customs Organization The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development International Monetary Fund Q.11) भारत की 7 वीं व्यापार नीति समीक्षा सितंबर 2020 में आयोजित होने वाली है। निम्नलिखित में से कौन सा संगठन व्यापार नीति की समीक्षा करता है? विश्व व्यापार संगठन विश्व सीमा शुल्क संगठन व्यापार और विकास पर संयुक्त राष्ट्र सम्मेलन अंतरराष्ट्रीय मुद्रा कोष Q.12) The “International Debt Statistics” report is released by World Trade Organization World Bank World Economic Forum International Monetary Fund Q.12) अंतर्राष्ट्रीय ऋण सांख्यिकी (International Debt Statistics) रिपोर्ट, किसके द्वारा जारी किया जाता है विश्व व्यापार संगठन विश्व बैंक विश्व आर्थिक मंच अंतरराष्ट्रीय मुद्रा कोष Q.13) Consider the following statements Trade in services is denoted as invisible trade because they are not seen to cross national borders. Total foreign trade as a proportion of GDP is a common measure of the degree of openness of an economy. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.13) निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें सेवाओं में व्यापार को अदृश्य व्यापार के रूप में निरूपित किया जाता है क्योंकि वे राष्ट्रीय सीमाओं को पार करते नहीं दिखाई देते हैं। जीडीपी के अनुपात के रूप में कुल विदेशी व्यापार एक अर्थव्यवस्था के खुलेपन की डिग्री की एक सामान्य माप है। ऊपर दिए गए कथनों में से कौन सा सही है / हैं? केवल 1 केवल 2  1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.14) Consider the following statements The real exchange rate is often taken as a measure of a country’s international competitiveness. If the real exchange rate is equal to zero, currencies are at purchasing power parity. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.14) निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें वास्तविक विनिमय दर (real exchange rate) को अक्सर देश की अंतरराष्ट्रीय प्रतिस्पर्धा की माप के रूप में लिया जाता है। यदि वास्तविक विनिमय दर शून्य के बराबर है, तो मुद्राएं क्रय शक्ति समता (PPP) पर होती हैं। ऊपर दिए गए कथनों में से कौन सा सही है / हैं? केवल 1  केवल 2  1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.15) Recently, India signed a currency swap agreement with which of the following countries? USA China Brazil Japan Q.15) हाल ही में, भारत ने निम्नलिखित में से किस देश के साथ मुद्रा विनिमय समझौते (currency swap agreement) पर हस्ताक्षर किए हैं? अमेरीका चीन ब्राज़ील जापान Q.16) Consider the following statements regarding Managed floating exchange rate system It is a mixture of a flexible exchange rate system and a fixed rate system. In it, central banks intervene, whenever required, to buy and sell foreign currencies in an attempt to moderate exchange rate movements. Choose the correct answer using the codes given below 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.16) प्रबंधित फ्लोटिंग विनिमय दर प्रणाली (Managed floating exchange rate system) के बारे में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें यह एक लचीली विनिमय दर प्रणाली और एक निश्चित दर प्रणाली का मिश्रण है। इसमें, केंद्रीय बैंक तभी हस्तक्षेप करते हैं, जब आवश्यकता होती है, जैसे विदेशी मुद्राओं को खरीदने और बेचने के लिए विनिमय दर संचलन को मध्यम करने के प्रयास में। नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें केवल 1 केवल 2  1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.17) Consider the following statements regarding India’s trade ties China was India’s largest trading partner in 2018-19. India had a trade surplus with the USA in 2018-19. Choose the incorrect answer using the codes given below 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.17) भारत के व्यापार संबंधों के बारे में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें भारत का 2018-19 में चीन सबसे बड़ा व्यापारिक भागीदार था। भारत का 2018-19 में यूएसए के साथ व्यापार अधिशेष था। नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके गलत उत्तर चुनें केवल 1 केवल 2  1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.18) Which of the following factors determines the exchange rate of a currency? Market sentiment Interest rates Fiscal Policy Choose the correct answer using the codes given below 1 only 1 and 2 only 2 and 3 only All of the above Q.18) निम्नलिखित में से कौन सा कारक, मुद्रा की विनिमय दर निर्धारित करता है? बाजार की धारणा ब्याज दर राजकोषीय नीति नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें केवल 1 केवल 1 और 2 केवल 2 और 3 उपरोक्त सभी Q.19) Which of the following leads to a Cost-push inflation when a currency is devalued? The Rise in the prices of imported raw materials. Increased demand for local goods as foreign goods become costlier. Increased demand for local goods as more goods are exported. Increased foreign investment. Q.19) निम्न में से कौन मुद्रा के अवमूल्यन होने पर लागत-प्रेरित मुद्रास्फीति (Cost-push inflation) की ओर जाता है? आयातित कच्चे माल की कीमतों में वृद्धि। विदेशी वस्तुओं के महंगे हो जाने के कारण स्थानीय वस्तुओं की मांग में वृद्धि। स्थानीय वस्तुओं की मांग में वृद्धि क्योंकि अधिक वस्तुओं को निर्यात किया जाता है। विदेशी निवेश में वृद्धि। Q.20) In the context of Balance of payment (BoP), what are accommodating transaction? Mismatches in Balance of payment records. Current account transactions. Transactions that are done to balance the surplus or deficit of Balance of payment. Transactions that are done with profit maximization motive. Q.20) भुगतान संतुलन (BoP) के संदर्भ में, लेन-देन समायोजन (accommodating transaction) क्या हैं? भुगतान संतुलन (BoP) रिकॉर्ड में असंतुलन चालू खाता लेनदेन। भुगतान संतुलन अधिशेष या घाटे को संतुलित करने के लिए किए गए लेन-देन। लेन-देन, जो लाभ अधिकतम करने के उद्देश्य से किए जाते हैं। Q.21) With reference to Masala Bonds, Consider the following statements: Masala bonds are bonds issued outside India. Unlike dollar bonds, where the investors take the currency risk, Masala bond makes the borrower bear the risk. The International Finance Corporation (IFC) named it as Masala Bonds.  Which of the statements given above is/are Correct? 1, 2 and 3  1 and 2 only 1 and 3 only 2 only Q.21) मसाला बांड (Masala Bonds) के संदर्भ में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें: मसाला बॉन्ड भारत के बाहर जारी किए गए बॉन्ड हैं। डॉलर बॉन्ड के विपरीत, जहां निवेशक मुद्रा जोखिम उठाते हैं, मसाला बांड उधारकर्ता पर जोखिम भार आरोपित करता है। अंतर्राष्ट्रीय वित्त निगम (IFC) ने इसे मसाला बॉन्ड्स का नाम दिया है। ऊपर दिए गए कथनों में से कौन सा सही है / हैं? 1, 2 और 3 केवल 1 और 2 केवल 1 और 3 केवल 2  Q.22) Consider the following statements Budget 2020 provision seeks to tax income of non-resident Indians who are not paying taxes in any other tax jurisdictions. Income earned outside India by him shall not be taxed in India unless it is derived from an Indian business or profession. Which of the statements given above is/are Correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.22) निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें बजट 2020 प्रावधान में अनिवासी भारतीयों की आय पर कर लगाने की मांग की गई है जो किसी अन्य कर प्राधिकार क्षेत्रों में कर का भुगतान नहीं कर रहे हैं। उनके द्वारा भारत के बाहर अर्जित आय पर भारत में तब तक कर नहीं लगाया जाएगा जब तक कि वह भारतीय व्यवसाय या पेशे से प्राप्त न हो। ऊपर दिए गए कथनों में से कौन सा सही है / हैं? केवल 1 केवल 2  1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.23) With reference to National War Memorial, Consider the following statements: The National War Memorial draws inspiration from the 'Chakravyuh' formation The National War Memorial pays tribute to soldiers who laid down their lives only in wars against Pakistan and China. Which of the statements given above is/are Correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.23) राष्ट्रीय युद्ध स्मारक (National War Memorial) के संदर्भ में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें: राष्ट्रीय युद्ध स्मारक 'चक्रव्यूह' (Chakravyuh) के निर्माण से प्रेरणा लेता है राष्ट्रीय युद्ध स्मारक उन सैनिकों को श्रद्धांजलि देता है जिन्होंने केवल पाकिस्तान और चीन के विरुद्ध युद्ध में अपने जीवन का त्याग दिया है। ऊपर दिए गए कथनों में से कौन सा सही है / हैं? केवल 1 केवल 2  1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.24) Which of the following statements is/are Correct regarding Parambikulam Tiger Reserve? Parambikulam Tiger Reserve is a protected area in Tamil Nadu. The sanctuary is the home of four different tribes of indigenous peoples including the Kadar, Malasar, Muduvar and Mala Malasar. The oldest ever teak tree, Kannimara Teak exists here.  Select the correct answer using the code given below: 1 and 2 only 1 only 2 and 3  only 1, 2 and 3 Q.24) परम्बिकुलम टाइगर रिजर्व के संबंध में, निम्नलिखित में से कौन सा कथन सही है / हैं? परम्बिकुलम टाइगर रिज़र्व तमिलनाडु का एक संरक्षित क्षेत्र है। अभयारण्य चार अलग-अलग जनजातियों का घर है जिसमें कादर, मालासर, मुदुवर और माला मालासार शामिल हैं। अभी तक का सबसे पुराना सागौन का पेड़ (teak tree), कन्नीमारा सागौन यहीं मौजूद है। नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें: केवल 1 और 2 केवल 1 केवल 2 और 3 1, 2 और 3 Q.25) With reference to Sharang, Consider the following statements: The Sharang has been upgraded successfully from its previous specification by Bharat Dynamics Limited. Sharang is an Anti-Tank Guided Missile. Which of the statements given above is/are Correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.25) शारंग (Sharang) के संदर्भ में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें: भारत डायनामिक्स लिमिटेड द्वारा शारंग को इसकी पूर्व विशिष्टताओं से सफलतापूर्वक उन्नत किया गया है। शारंग एक एंटी-टैंक निर्देशित मिसाइल है। ऊपर दिए गए कथनों में से कौन सा सही है / हैं? केवल 1 केवल 2  1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.26) Consider the following statements  ‘Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulations (BEFR), 1873’ empowered the Lieutenant Governor to define an inner line, beyond which no British subject of certain classes or foreign residents could pass without a licence. The Government of India Act, 1935 prescribed “excluded areas” and “partially excluded areas” to be under the direct control of the provincial governor, to the exclusion of the Indian legislature. Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.26) निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें ‘बंगाल ईस्टर्न फ्रंटियर रेगुलेशंस (BEFR), 1873' ने लेफ्टिनेंट गवर्नर को एक आंतरिक रेखा (inner line) को परिभाषित करने का अधिकार दिया, जिसके आगे ब्रिटिश अधिकार क्षेत्र का निश्चित वर्ग या विदेशी निवासी बिना लाइसेंस के नहीं जा सकता था। भारत सरकार अधिनियम, 1935 ने भारतीय विधायिका के अधिकार क्षेत्र से बाहर रखने हेतु तथा प्रांतीय गवर्नर के प्रत्यक्ष नियंत्रण में रखने के लिए "बहिष्कृत क्षेत्रों" (excluded areas) और "आंशिक रूप से बहिष्कृत क्षेत्रों" (partially excluded areas) को निर्धारित किया। सही कथनों का चयन करें केवल 1 केवल 2  1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.27) ‘Yongle Blue Hole’ was in news recently. Where is it located? East Philippines Sea Yellow Sea Bismarck Sea Sea of Azov Q.27) 'योंगले ब्लू होल' (Yongle Blue Hole) हाल ही में समाचारों में था। यह कहाँ स्थित है? पूर्वी फिलीपींस सागर पीला सागर बिस्मार्क सागर अज़ोव सागर Q.28) Which of the following countries is India’s largest trading partner? United Arab Emirates China USA United Kingdom Q.28) निम्नलिखित में से कौन सा देश, भारत का सबसे बड़ा व्यापारिक भागीदार (trading partner) है? संयुक्त अरब अमीरात चीन अमेरीका यूनाइटेड किंगडम Q.29) Which of the following pairs are correctly matched? Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary – Assam Malai Mahadeshwara Wildlife Sanctuary – Karnataka Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary – Kerala Select the correct code: 1 and 2 3 Only 2 and 3 1, 2 and 3 Q.29) निम्नलिखित में से कौन सा युग्म सही ढंग से सुमेलित है? ईगलनेस्ट वन्यजीव अभयारण्य - असम मलाई महादेश्वरा वन्यजीव अभयारण्य - कर्नाटक थोलपेट्टी वन्यजीव अभयारण्य - केरल सही कूट का चयन करें: 1 और 2 कथन 3  2 और 3 1, 2 और 3 Q.30) Which of the following countries have collaborated with India for a government-to-government agreement on jet engine technology development? France United Kingdom Japan Israel Q.30) जेट इंजन प्रौद्योगिकी विकास पर सरकार से सरकार (G2G) के समझौते के लिए, निम्नलिखित में से किस देश ने भारत के साथ सहयोग किया है? फ्रांस यूनाइटेड किंगडम जापान इजराइल DOWNLOAD THE SOLUTION ENGLISH HINDI NOTE- Follow this for Comments Mention- Time Taken after solving the Test After the release of Solution Edit your Comment to Mention-  Correct/Incorrect and Score 2 Marks for Correct/0.66 minus for Incorrect. DOWNLOAD THE 60 DAYS PLAN 2020  PRELIMS EXCLUSIVE CURRENT AFFAIRS CLASSES (12 SESSIONS-By Tauseef Sir): STARTING 15 APRIL- JOIN NOW! All the Best! IASbaba    

Apr 22, 2020 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 22nd April 2020

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 22nd April 2020 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) World economy to contract by 3%: IMF's report   Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III - Economy   In News:  As per the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) World Economic Outlook (WEO), COVID-19 pandemic is having a ‘severe’ effect on the world economy.   The economy is expected to contract by 3% in 2020, which will be much worse than the 2008-09 financial crises.   Key takeaways:  As per the WEO, India’s growth is expected to dip to 1.9% in 2020 and rebound to 7.4% in 2021.  Similar observation was made by the World bank's South Asia Economic Focus report.   As countries implement necessary quarantines and social-distancing practices to contain the pandemic, the world has been put in a great lockdown due to which all the economic activities have been affected.   The cumulative loss to global GDP over 2020 and 2021 from the pandemic crisis could be around $9 trillion, greater than the economies of Japan and Germany, combined.   Important value additions:  The World Economic Outlook (WEO)   It is an IMF report that provides analysis and forecasts of economic developments and policies in its member countries.  It also projects developments in the global financial markets and economic systems.  The WEO is usually prepared twice a year.   International Monetary Fund  It is an organization of 189 countries which has the objectives to:   foster global monetary cooperation,   secure financial stability,   facilitate international trade,   promote high employment and sustainable economic growth  reduce poverty around the world.  It was created in 1945.  It is governed by and accountable to the 189 member countries.  Its primary purpose is to ensure the stability of the international monetary system, that is, the system of exchange rates and international payments that enables countries to transact with each other.  Lithium-rich giant stars discovered in space   Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III - Space   In News:  Researchers at the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) have discovered hundreds of Li-rich giant stars in space.   Key takeaways:  The discovery indicates that Lithium (Li) is being produced in the stars.   The production, thus, accounts for its abundance in the interstellar (situated between stars) medium.  Lithium enhancement is also being associated with central Helium (He) burning stars, also known as red clump giants.   This association could open up new vistas in the evolution of the red giant stars.  This is an important discovery that will help to eliminate many proposed theories such as planet engulfment during the red giant evolution in which helium at the center is not burning.  Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) is an autonomous institute under the Department of Science &Technology.   Important value additions:  Lithium (Li), is one of the three primordial (from the beginning) elements apart from Hydrogen (H) and Helium (He),   They were produced in the big bang nucleosynthesis (BBN).   In general, stars are considered as Li sinks.   This means that the original Li, with which stars are born, only gets depleted over stars’ life-time.    TIFAC explores best methods to revive Indian economy post COVID-19   Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III – Science and Technology   In News:  The Technology Information, Forecasting and Assessment Council (TIFAC) is preparing a white paper to strategize revival of post-COVID 19 Indian economy.  Key takeaways:  This document would mainly focus on:  strengthening Make in India initiatives,   commercialization of Indigenous technology,   developing a technology-driven transparent Public Distribution System (PDS),   efficient rural health care delivery,  adoption of emerging technology domains like AI, Machine Learning and many more.   Important value additions:  TIFAC  It is an autonomous technology think tank under the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India.   Thinking for the future in important socio-economic sectors is one of its mandates.   It was established in 1986, as per the recommendation of Technology Policy Implementation Committee (TPIC) in 1985.   TIFAC activities comprise of wide array of technology areas and fill a critical gap in the overall S&T system of India.   Miscellaneous   COVID India Seva  Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has launched ‘COVID India Seva’, an interactive platform for citizen engagement on COVID-19.   It provided an interactive platform to establish a direct channel of communication with millions of Indians amid the pandemic.   This initiative is aimed at enabling transparent e-governance delivery and answering citizen queries swiftly,  Mobile App Saiyam  A mobile App Saiyam, launched by Pune Municipal Corporation, tracks Home Quarantined Citizens.   It is developed to ensure they are actually staying in the home.   It was developed under Smart Cities Mission (SCM).  It has GPS tracking as well.   Earth Day   The Earth day is observed on April 22 in order to create awareness about pollution and to celebrate the environment of our planet.  This year is a special occasion as it marks the 50th Anniversary of Earth Day.   The theme of the day this year is ‘Climate Action’.  (MAINS FOCUS) SOCIETY/ GOVERNANCE Topic: General Studies 1 & 2: Social empowerment Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.  Migrants and their significance in India Context: The COVID-19 crisis has, for the first time, brought migration & their exodus (mass migration) to the centre stage of public health and disaster response in India.   Changing Nature of Mass Migration  In the past, a mass migration would take place because of a disaster such as a famine, drought, flood, or regional conflict.   It would be from the area where such a calamity was unfolding.  Though, such types of mass migration continue, now there are new narratives of it caused by demonetisation, violence against migrants, and lockdown.  The decisive role played by the state or the lack of it, is causing such migration  Significance of Migrant Workers in public health and political economy  1. The numbers involved are very high  For instance: Bihar which has a population of about 123 million has an estimated inter-state migrant population of 3 million   2. India’s economy, particularly of the growth centres, depends on the services of migrant workers.  For Instance:   Agricultural activities during harvest season  Sectors such as construction, garment manufacturing and mining   3. Economic shock to home States (Ex. UP, Bihar) when migrants return (from Delhi, Mumbai), as there are no compensatory sources of livelihood to be offered  This will impact nutrition, health, education of dependents and the well-being of the older population.   4. In the case of epidemics, exodus of seasonal migrants creates danger of the spread of the disease in rural areas  5. Loss of Livelihoods  Working from home or getting paid leave is largely a middle-class phenomenon  Daily-wage earners do not have the capacity to stay at a destination during lockdown thus causing their exodus   6. Low Quality of Life  Due to lack of sanitation, hygiene, safe drinking water, health services, social security measures, and affordable housing   7. Vulnerable to infection  The pathetic living conditions of migrants in slum-like colonies, where people simply cannot practise social distancing, are breeding grounds of communicable diseases  Though, government announced ₹1.7 Lakh crore relief package, there are reasons to believe that it will not benefit seasonal migrants, reasons being  Those migrants who are not ration cardholders in the cities where they are stationed will not benefit from additional free foodgrains under the PDS.   They cannot avail of increased MGNREGA wages until they go back home.   As many seasonal migrants are landless they will not benefit from PM-KISAN component of the package  They will not get benefits under the Building and Other Construction Workers Welfare Board because of low registration  Conclusion  The states need to address immediate distress conditions and simultaneously initiate long-term structural changes in the policy towards migrants   Connecting the dots : Article 19(1)(d) of Indian Constitution  One Nation- One Ration Card  INTERNATIONAL  Topic: General Studies 2: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests. Indian Ocean Commission (IOC) and India Context: IOC granted observer status to India on March 6th,2020.  About IOC  Founded in 1982, the IOC is an intergovernmental organisation comprising five small-island states in the Western Indian Ocean which are  Comoros  Madagascar  Mauritius  Réunion (a French department)  Seychelles.  Decisions in the IOC are consensus-based in spite of the presence of major Power-France (Reunion)  Significance of IOC: For its geographical location, as the islands sit around a “key choke-point” in the Indian Ocean — the Mozambique Channel  Pic: Source Achievements of IOC  In 2012, the IOC was one of the four regional organisations to launch the MASE Programme  MASE is an EU-funded programme to promote Maritime Security in Eastern and Southern Africa and Indian Ocean  Under MASE, the IOC has established a mechanism for surveillance and control of the Western Indian Ocean with two regional centres.   The Regional Maritime Information Fusion Centre (RMIFC), based in Madagascar, monitors maritime activities and promotes information sharing  The Regional Coordination Operations Centre (RCOC), based in Seychelles, will facilitate jointly coordinated interventions at sea based on information gathered through the RMIFC.  What are the merits of maritime security architecture (RMIFC & RCOC) created by IOC?  These platforms act as deterrent against maritime crime at sea  Supplements the high-level counter-piracy presence of naval forces from the EU and USA  It provides sustainable framework to improve maritime control and surveillance while allowing littoral States to shape their own destiny  India and IOC  Similar thinking: IOC is not seeking a ‘big brother’ partnership which is aligned with India’s policy of treating all Nations as equals irrespective of their size  Model to be replicated: The IOC style of ‘bottom-up regionalism’ has led to regional definition of maritime security problems and local ownership of workable solutions. Such a strategy can be replicated at South Asian level  Multiplier effect: Local successes at curbing maritime threats, through IOC, will have broader security dividends for the Indian Ocean space.  Potential Partner: India’s SAGAR vision is intended to be “consultative, democratic and equitable”, which syncs with IOC vision of regional security  Way Ahead: How Indian can help IOC?  Support sub-regional efforts such as those of the IOC.  Building capacity of IOC countries to patrol their EEZs  Linking of India’s information fusion centres with others in the region  Providing Technical expertise in maritime monitoring & surveillance  Providing India’s satellite imagery services to RMIFC  Connecting the dots  Other regional Organisation in the subcontinent  Importance of Mozambique Channel as the U.S.-Iran tensions threaten the Strait of Hormuz.   (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Note:  Correct answers of today’s questions will be provided in next day’s DNA section. Kindly refer to it and update your answers.  Comments Up-voted by IASbaba are also the “correct answers”. Q.1 Consider the following statements regarding world economic Outlook report:  It is published by International Monetary Fund   The report is released twice a year.  Which of the above is/are correct?  1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2  Q.2 Which of the following are the primordial elements?   Helium and Hydrogen   Helium Lithium Hydrogen  Lithium and Helium  Lithium and hydrogen  Q.3 Consider the following statements regarding The Technology Information, Forecasting and Assessment Council (TIFAC):  It is a statutory body. It was established as per the recommendation of Technology policy implementation committee.  Which of the above is/are correct?  1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2  Q.4 COVID-19 India Seva is launched by which of the following ministry?   Ministry of Health and Family Welfare  Ministry of Agriculture  Ministry of Defence  Ministry of Railways  ANSWERS FOR 21st April 2020 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 D 2 C 3 A 4 C Must Read About e-commerce during lockdown The Hindu About Oil Price meltdown The Hindu About Syrian war dynamics The Hindu

Apr 22, 2020 Catharsis -Unlock Your Talent and Creativity

Catharsis -Unlock Your Talent & Creativity: POEM by SACHIN CHATURVEDI & Naked Soul [VIDEO] by Nicholas SQUARE!

Catharsis -Unlock Your Talent & Creativity Hello Friends, You must be aware of the term ‘catharsis’. It is the process of releasing and thereby providing relief from, strong or repressed emotions. Recently we have launched a new initiative by the name Catharsis -Unlock Your Talent & Creativity! Today's work is - A POEM by a Mechanical Engineer by profession and a wannabe diplomat by choice SACHIN CHATURVEDI A video has been shared on Twitter based on problems of Covid19 - Click here Another Talented Artist "Nicholas SQUARE" - Watch "Naked Soul" on YouTube a Creative by him - Click here Well done, Keep it up !!   Be creative and find your catharsis in whichever form of creativity you are comfortable with.  It could be anything- a song, a painting, a poem, a story, a dance performance, rangolis, jokes/humor, culinary skills, mimicry and whatnot. There is no limit to creativity. Just unleash and share it with everyone! Why don’t you share your moments of catharsis with us? UPSC is not only about academics but personality as well. And your personality is shaped by the creativity that you possess.   To know more about Catharsis -Unlock Your Talent & Creativity' Initiative and the Previous Creative work  -> CLICK HERE We encourage you to keep the comment section alive by sharing your talents and also by commenting and encouraging the talent of your peers. We are also going to be a regular visitor here and will keep on posting the creative works by our talented team members and staff. NOTE- You can also nominate by tagging anyone (if you know about the talent of your friend or anyone) 🙂 You can share your talent/creativity with us on support@iasbaba.com and ilp@iasbaba.com  P.S: Kindly share it in a format that can be published on the website. We believe each one of you have some hidden talent. It’s time that you explore more about yourselves and remain positive throughout this journey. Make the best use of this opportunity! Thank You IASbaba

Apr 22, 2020 RSTV Video

Coronavirus' Impact on Environment – The Big Picture – RSTV IAS UPSC

Coronavirus' Impact on Environment Archives TOPIC: General Studies 2 Global Pandemic - COVID-19 General Studies 3 Environment and Climate Change In News: In a matter of months, the world has been transformed. Thousands of people have died, and hundreds of thousands more have fallen ill, from a coronavirus that was previously unknown before appearing in the city of Wuhan in December 2019. For millions of others who have not caught the disease, their entire way of life has been changed by it. In China, emissions fell 25% at the start of the year as people were instructed to stay at home, factories shuttered and coal use fell by 40% at China’s six largest power plants since the last quarter of 2019. The proportion of days with “good quality air” was up 11.4% compared with the same time last year in 337 cities across China. In Europe, satellite images show nitrogen dioxide (NO2) emissions fading away over northern Italy. A similar story is playing out in Spain and the UK. Global carbon emissions from the fossil fuel industry could fall by a record 2.5 bn tonnes this year, a reduction of 5%, as the coronavirus pandemic triggers the biggest drop in demand for fossil fuels on record.  Let us explore the various factors around it… Travel restrictions With lockdown in several countries, and reduced travel during the pandemic, these emissions will stay lowered. But when these measures are eventually lifted, it might not be the case. Also, travelling within cities are restricted owing to social distancing, forcing people to work from home. Frequent flying forms a large part of the carbon footprint for people who do it regularly, so these emissions could simply come back if people return to their old habits. And when the offices open, especially in larger cities around the world, the fear of moving away from crowded places might lead to more people opting for exclusive travel, thereby increasing emissions from the level it was at earlier.  Historic epidemics Throughout history, the spread of disease has been linked to lower emissions – even well before the industrial age. So, this is not the first time that we are witnessing this phenomenon. Epidemics such as the Black Death in Europe in the 14th Century, and the epidemics of diseases such as smallpox brought to South America with the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors in the 16th Century, both left subtle marks on atmospheric CO2 levels. Those changes were the result of the high death rates from disease and, in the case of the conquest of the Americas, from genocide. Other studies have found that these deaths meant that large tracts of previously cultivated land was abandoned, growing wild and sinking large quantities of CO2. Today, it is largely due to reduced industrial activity, which contributes carbon emissions on a comparable scale to transport. Combined emissions from industrial processes, manufacturing and construction make up 18.4% of global anthropogenic emissions. The financial crash of 2008-09 led to an overall dip in emissions of 1.3%. But this quickly rebounded by 2010 as the economy recovered, leading to an all-time high. Health Systems: Well-resourced, equitable health systems with a strong and supported health workforce are essential to protect us from health security threats, including climate change.  The austerity measures that have strained many national health systems over the past decade will have to be reversed if economies and societies are to be resilient and prosperous in an age of change.  For example, many Iranian lives could have been saved at the early stages of the COVID-19 outbreak in the country, if its beleaguered healthcare system had been better prepared for what was to come. Inequality in Society Inequality is a major barrier in ensuring the health and wellbeing of people, and how social and economic inequality materializes in unequal access to healthcare systems For example, the health threat of the novel coronavirus is, on average, greater for cities and people exposed to higher levels of pollution, which are most often people living in poorer areas.  The same is true for the health impacts of climate change, with one of its major causes, the burning of fossil fuels, also adding pollution to the air and disproportionately impacting the health of those in poverty. Change in Habits:  Times of change can lead to the introduction of lasting habits, and this time it might lead to habits that are coincidentally good for the climate – travelling less or, perhaps, cutting down on food waste as we experience shortages due to stockpiling.  It has also forced us to dramatically change our behaviour in order to protect ourselves and those around us, to a degree most of us have never experienced before. Even though climate change presents a slower, more long-term health threat, an equally dramatic and sustained shift in behaviour will be needed to prevent irreversible damage. The Shift in Perspective: If we want to, we can Many communities have come forward and taken big steps to protect each other from the health crisis.  The speed and extent of the response has given some hope that rapid action could also be taken on climate change if the threat it poses was treated as urgently.  Crises like these offer an opportunity for a regained sense of shared humanity, in which people realize what matters most: the health and safety of their loved ones, and by extension the health and safety of their community, country and fellow global citizens.  Both the climate crisis and unfolding pandemic threaten this one thing we all care about. Conclusion With the toll of early deaths, the pandemic has brought widespread job losses and threatened the livelihoods of millions as businesses struggle to cope with the restrictions being put in place to control the virus. Economic activity has stalled and stock markets have tumbled alongside the falling carbon emissions. It’s the precisely opposite of the drive towards a decarbonised, sustainable economy that many have been advocating for decades. But it a wake-up call for sure! Connecting the Dots: Will the coronavirus pandemic lead to longer-lasting falls in emissions? Discuss. Can development and environment protection co-exist? Comment. Public health is a political choice. Comment. Essay topics: If there is hope for our climate, it is pinned on communities.  All health shocks have one feature in common: they hit the poorest and the most vulnerable the hardest.

Apr 22, 2020 60 DAYS PROGRAMME-PRELIMS 2020

LAST DAY TO REGISTER for IASbaba's ALL INDIA MOCK EXAM 2020 - Registration Closes at 8 PM Today!

Dear Students, Today is the last day to Register for IASbaba's ALL INDIA MOCK EXAM 2020. The Registration Closes at 8 PM Today! This MOCK EXAM is OPEN FOR ALL (FREE)! and it is available BOTH IN  HINDI & ENGLISH. प्रिलिम्स फुल मॉक टेस्ट अब हिंदी में To REGISTER & to Know More about the MOCK EXAM-> CLICK HERE P.S: Kindly follow BOTH Step1 and Step 2 for Registration. Please Note: Only students who have Registered with VALID EMAIL ID and other mentioned fields can take up the Exam and Ranks will be announced accordingly!  SOLUTION (Detailed Explanation) PDF will be sent to your REGISTERED Email id. You can also check the solution on the same Test Platform. After, Registration, kindly login one day before the exam (i.e, on 22nd April, today) and check whether you are able to see the FULL MOCK-1 under the LEARN tab (as shown below in the pic), if not mail us on support@iasbaba.com. For any Queries – Mail us on support@iasbaba.com   Thank You IASbaba

Apr 22, 2020 Important Articles

LAST DAY TO REGISTER for IASbaba's ALL INDIA MOCK EXAM 2020 - Registration Closes at 8 PM Today!

Dear Students, Today is the last day to Register for IASbaba's ALL INDIA MOCK EXAM 2020. The Registration Closes at 8 PM Today! This MOCK EXAM is OPEN FOR ALL (FREE)! and it is available BOTH IN  HINDI & ENGLISH. प्रिलिम्स फुल मॉक टेस्ट अब हिंदी में To REGISTER & to Know More about the MOCK EXAM-> CLICK HERE P.S: Kindly follow BOTH Step1 and Step 2 for Registration. Please Note: Only students who have Registered with VALID EMAIL ID and other mentioned fields can take up the Exam and Ranks will be announced accordingly!  SOLUTION (Detailed Explanation) PDF will be sent to your REGISTERED Email id. You can also check the solution on the same Test Platform. After, Registration, kindly login one day before the exam (i.e, on 22nd April, today) and check whether you are able to see the FULL MOCK-1 under the LEARN tab (as shown below in the pic), if not mail us on support@iasbaba.com. For any Queries – Mail us on support@iasbaba.com   Thank You IASbaba

Apr 22, 2020 60 DAYS PROGRAMME-PRELIMS 2020

IASbaba’s 60 Day Plan [Day - 45]- IAS Prelims Test Series 2020 ECONOMICS & CURRENT AFFAIRS

ARCHIVES OF 60 DAY PLAN STRATEGY [VIDEO]: UPSC IAS Preparation Guidance/Tips from Mohan Sir  Dear Students, The 60 Days Training has finally begun:) DAY 45 is here! It is time to Introspect, Ideate and Improve!! We have come-up with articles to instil confidence, motivate you in the present situation. Do read these articles. Mark the words/lines in your dairy. These very lines can be the driving force’ in the time of uncertainty. [STRATEGY] MUST READ: 21 Days of Lockdown-What to do? Introspect, Ideate and Improve !! MUST READ: PRELIMS in Testing Times – Don’t Forget the ‘WHY’; IASbaba’s dedicated HOTLINE for Aspirants and Prelims Postponing Rumours Coronavirus[VIDEO]: Awareness, Myths, Solidarity and Message to All UPSC Aspirants by Mohan Sir Founder IASbaba   To ensure that your preparation goes smoothly and keeping up with our promise, we have come up with a Dedicated HOTLINE (Communication channel) - Connect with BABA for all UPSC/IAS Aspirants. From today, you will be able to speak with the Founders and Core Team of IASbaba on telephone regarding ‘any queries’ related to UPSC preparation in general or Subject-specific doubts. This Hotline, will be in addition to the 'ASK YOUR BABA' (#ASKBABA) thread opened on a daily basis for our 60 Day plan. We will try to make sure that with so much going around these days, you have at least one less thing to worry about.   How to make use of HOTLINE and ASK YOUR BABA (#ASKBABA)? There are 2 initiatives which will be running parallely. 1. HOTLINE - Connect with BABA (5pm - 7pm) The communication channel will be open ONLY for 2 hours Daily (except on Sundays - holiday) from 5pm to 7 pm. Please do not make calls before or after the specified time. As we will be occupied with other daily initiatives running on the website and mentorship. Hope you understand our time constraints. Please note that, call facilities are mainly for queries related to preparation per se like strategies, difficulties in reading a subject, what to read, what not to read, how to manage time, revision, motivation etc. You can call on the numbers given below. For any queries related to - UPSC Preparation (Prelims, Mains, Interview) Strategy & Current Affairs – contact 9986190082 Environment & Science and Technology – contact 9986193016 Polity & Economics – contact 9899291288 Geography & History – contact 9591106864 We have separated General Strategy (Preparation per se – Pre, Mains, Interview) and Current Affairs from other subjects. You can make use of the HOTLINE, as per your needs.   2. ASK YOUR BABA (#ASKBABA) - clear your doubts on the 60 Day Platform (Online from 11 am - 10 pm) Use the disqus comment section of that particular day (60 Day post - For Ex: Today is Day 25) to clear all your subject specific doubts of the day. You can post your queries/doubts with #ASKBABA !! Here, doubts related to the 60 day questions or conceptual clarity in a particular subject can be asked. Your doubts will be cleared on real-time basis (or max within hour it will be answered from the subject experts) If you are genuinely finding difficulty interms of preparing with that particular subject, then you can use 5pm-7pm window to make calls. If you are not able to speak to IASbaba's Team, then you can still post your doubts/queries in the same post of the 60 day initiative. As mentioned above, your doubts will be cleared on real-time basis (or max within hour it will be answered from the subject experts). Make the best use of the communication channel (Ask Your Baba/comment section on daily 60 Day post and calls) provided. We will make sure that, all your queries will be answered to. So we have  tried our bit, to ensure your preparation goes smoothly, you can do your bit by keeping in touch with us via phone/ website to keep yourself going, keep yourself engaged and staying positive during the rough times.   How to make the maximum use of this HOTLINE and #ASKBABA (Disqus comment of 60 Day Plan) on Daily basis? Now, that I have solved 30 mcq’s, what to do next?  How to Analyse my Performance? For Answers to the above Questions  ->CONNECT WITH BABA: IASbaba’s Dedicated HOTLINE for UPSC/IAS Aspirants !!   Note- Download the OMR Sheet and attempt the questions exactly like UPSC Prelims. After you are done, please post your OMR in the comment section. Once the solution key is released (5 PM), cross-check the answers and again, comment the marks (you got) in the same comment thread. This will keep you responsible and sincere in days to come. Also, we need more sets of scores for releasing the cut offs in the night so, requesting all of you to sincerely put your scores in comment section.    You can also take part in discussion with peers.   Q.1) Consider the following statements regarding National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC) NCDC is a statutory corporation under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare. Yuva Sahakar scheme was formulated by NCDC to attract youth to cooperative business ventures. Choose the correct answer using the codes given below 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.1) राष्ट्रीय सहकारी विकास निगम (NCDC) के बारे में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें। एनसीडीसी कृषि और किसान कल्याण मंत्रालय के तहत एक वैधानिक निगम है। युवाओं को सहकारी व्यवसाय उपक्रमों के प्रति आकर्षित करने के लिए एनसीडीसी द्वारा युवा सहकार योजना (Yuva Sahakar scheme) तैयार की गई। नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें केवल 1 केवल 2  1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.2) Consider the following statements regarding the Public Enterprises Survey 2018-19 It is a Survey on the performance of Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs). It is conducted by the Ministry of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises. According to the survey BSNL, Air India and MTNL are the top 3 loss making PSU’s. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 and 2 only 1 and 3 only 2 and 3 only All of the above Q.2) सार्वजनिक उद्यम सर्वेक्षण 2018-19 के बारे में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें यह केंद्रीय सार्वजनिक क्षेत्र के उद्यम (CPSEs) के प्रदर्शन पर एक सर्वेक्षण है। यह भारी उद्योग और सार्वजनिक उद्यम मंत्रालय द्वारा संचालित किया जाता है। सर्वेक्षण के अनुसार, बीएसएनएल, एयर इंडिया और एमटीएनएल पीएसयू की शीर्ष 3 घाटे वाली इकाइयाँ हैं। ऊपर दिए गए कथनों में से कौन सा सही है / हैं? केवल 1 और 2 केवल 1 और 3 केवल 2 और 3 उपरोक्त सभी Q.3) Which of the following is not a major problem faced by Public Sector Enterprises in India? Understaffing Lack of Accountability Improper Pricing Policy Under Utilization of capacity Q.3) भारत में सार्वजनिक क्षेत्र के उद्यमों में, निम्नलिखित में से कौन सी मुख्य समस्या नहीं है? कर्मचारियों की कमी (understaffing) उत्तरदायित्व की कमी अनुचित मूल्य निर्धारण नीति क्षमता के अल्प-उपयोग Q.4) Consider the following statements regarding Defence Innovation Organization It is a ‘Not for profit’ company under section 8 of the Companies Act 2013. It is funded by two Defence Public Sector Undertakings namely Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL). Which of the above statements is/are incorrect? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) रक्षा नवोन्मेष संगठन (Defence Innovation Organization) के बारे में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें यह कंपनी अधिनियम 2013 की धारा 8 के तहत ‘गैर-लाभकारी’ कंपनी है। इसे दो सार्वजनिक क्षेत्र के रक्षा उपक्रम अर्थात हिंदुस्तान एयरोनॉटिक्स लिमिटेड (HAL) और भारत इलेक्ट्रॉनिक्स लिमिटेड (BEL) द्वारा वित्त पोषित किया गया है। उपरोक्त में से कौन सा कथन गलत है? केवल 1 केवल 2  1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.5) High-Level Committee on Corporate social responsibility (CSR) was headed by Uday Kotak  Injeti Srinivas Nachiket Mor Subhash Chandra Garg Q.5) कॉरपोरेट सामाजिक उत्तरदायित्व (CSR) पर उच्च-स्तरीय समिति की अध्यक्षता किसने की है  उदय कोटक इनजेति श्रीनिवास नचिकेत मोर सुभाष चंद्र गर्ग Q.6) Consider the following activities  Promotion of education Improving maternal health Measures to tackle the Covid-19 outbreak Which of the above activities are permitted under Corporate Social Responsibility? 1 and 2 only 1 and 3 only 2 and 3 only All of the above Q.6) निम्नलिखित गतिविधियों पर विचार करें शिक्षा का प्रोत्साहन मातृ स्वास्थ्य में सुधार कोविड -19 प्रकोप से निपटने के उपाय उपरोक्त गतिविधियों में से कौन सी कॉर्पोरेट सामाजिक उत्तरदायित्व के तहत अनुमत है? केवल 1 और 2 केवल 1 और 3 केवल 2 और 3 उपरोक्त सभी Q.7) Consider the following statements regarding Disinvestment Proceeds are maintained separately in the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund. Transfer of the ownership and control to the private sector is known as Strategic Disinvestment. Choose the correct answer using the codes given below 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.7) विनिवेश (Disinvestment) के संबंध में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें राष्ट्रीय निवेश और अवसंरचना कोष (NIIF) में पृथक रूप से प्राप्त राशि रखी जाती है। निजी क्षेत्र को स्वामित्व और नियंत्रण का हस्तांतरण, रणनीतिक विनिवेश के रूप में जाना जाता है। नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें केवल 1 केवल 2  1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.8) Consider the following statements regarding Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India (DFCCIL) It has been assigned the status of ‘special purpose vehicle’ by the Indian government. It engages in the planning and development, building, upkeep and the operation of the Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFC). One of its missions is to set up Multimodal logistic parks along the DFC to provide complete transport solution to customers. Which of the statements given above is/are incorrect? 1 and 2 only 1 and 3 only None of the above All of the above Q.8) समर्पित फ्रेट कॉरिडोर कॉरपोरेशन ऑफ इंडिया (DFCCIL) के बारे में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें। इसे भारत सरकार द्वारा 'विशेष प्रयोजन वाहन' का दर्जा दिया गया है। यह योजना और विकास, निर्माण, रखरखाव तथा समर्पित फ्रेट कॉरिडोर (DFC) के संचालन में संलग्न है। इसका एक मिशन ग्राहकों को संपूर्ण परिवहन समाधान प्रदान करने के लिए DFC के साथ मल्टीमॉडल लॉजिस्टिक पार्क स्थापित करना है। ऊपर दिए गए कथनों में से कौन सा गलत है / हैं? केवल 1 और 2 केवल 1 और 3 इनमे से कोई भी नहीं उपरोक्त सभी Q.9) Consider the following statements regarding the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) Companies Act, 2013, has accorded statutory status to SFIO. It is a multi-disciplinary organization under the Ministry of Finance. Choose the correct answer using the codes given below 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.9) गंभीर धोखाधड़ी जांच कार्यालय (Serious Fraud Investigation Office- SFIO) के बारे में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें। कंपनी अधिनियम, 2013, ने एसएफआईओ को वैधानिक दर्जा दिया है। यह वित्त मंत्रालय के तहत एक बहु-अनुशासनात्मक संगठन है। नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें केवल 1 केवल 2  1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.10) Simplified Proforma for Incorporating Company Electronically Plus (SPICe+) web form has been launched by Ministry of Labour Ministry of Corporate Affairs Ministry of Finance Ministry of Commerce and Industry Q.10) कंपनी को इलेक्ट्रॉनिक रूप से निगमित करने के लिए सरलीकृत प्रोफार्मा (SPICe +) वेब फॉर्म किसके द्वारा लॉन्च किया गया है श्रम मंत्रालय कारपोरेट कार्य मंत्रालय वित्त मत्रांलय वाणिज्य और उद्योग मंत्रालय Q.11) The U.K. Sinha committee was appointed by the RBI to Suggest measures to strengthen the safety and security of digital payments in the country. Assess the need and scope of setting up a Public Credit Registry in India. To look into measures needed to rejuvenate MSMEs. To make recommendations on the transfer of surplus funds from RBI to government. Q.11) यू.के. सिन्हा समिति को RBI द्वारा किस कार्य हेतु नियुक्त किया गया था देश में डिजिटल भुगतान की रक्षा और सुरक्षा को मजबूत करने के उपाय सुझाना। भारत में सार्वजनिक क्रेडिट रजिस्ट्री स्थापित करने की आवश्यकता और कार्यक्षेत्र का आकलन करना। MSMEs का जीर्णोद्धार (rejuvenate) करने के लिए आवश्यक उपायों पर गौर करना। आरबीआई से सरकार को अधिशेष निधियों के हस्तांतरण पर सिफारिशें करना। Q.12) Consider the following statements regarding the classification of Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) MSMEs are classified as per the MSME Act-2006. MSMEs are defined based on investment in plant and machinery/equipment. Choose the incorrect answer using the codes given below 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.12) सूक्ष्म, लघु और मध्यम उद्यमों (MSMEs) के वर्गीकरण के बारे में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें। MSMEs को MSME अधिनियम -2016 के अनुसार वर्गीकृत किया गया है। MSMEs को संयंत्र और मशीनरी / उपकरण में निवेश के आधार पर परिभाषित किया गया है। नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके गलत उत्तर चुनें केवल 1 केवल 2  1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.13) Which of the following is/are the reasons for the economic reforms of 1991? Rise in Fiscal Deficit. Increase in Adverse Balance of Payments. Dismal Performance of Public Sector Undertakings. Choose the correct answer using the codes given below 1 and 2 only 1 and 3 only 2 and 3 only All of the above Q.13) निम्नलिखित में से कौन, 1991 के आर्थिक सुधारों का कारण है? राजकोषीय घाटे में वृद्धि प्रतिकूल भुगतान संतुलन में वृद्धि सार्वजनिक क्षेत्र के उपक्रमों का निराशाजनक प्रदर्शन नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें केवल 1 और 2 केवल 1 और 3 केवल 2 और 3 उपरोक्त सभी Q.14) Consider the following statements regarding the Ease of Doing Business ranking It is an annual report released by the World Bank. India’s performance improved across all ten parameters of the ranking. Choose the correct answer using the codes given below 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.14) व्यापार करने में आसानी (Ease of Doing Business) रैंकिंग के बारे में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें यह विश्व बैंक द्वारा वार्षिक रूप से जारी किया जाता है। रैंकिंग के सभी दस मापदंडों में भारत का प्रदर्शन बेहतर हुआ है। नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें केवल 1 केवल 2  1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.15) Consider the following statements regarding the National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA) It will make recommendations to the Central Government on the formulation and laying down of accounting and auditing policies. It will have the power to investigate auditors registered under the Chartered Accountants Act, 1949. Choose the incorrect answer using the codes given below 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.15) राष्ट्रीय वित्तीय रिपोर्टिंग प्राधिकरण (NFRA) के बारे में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें। यह केंद्र सरकार को लेखांकन और लेखा परीक्षा नीतियों के निर्माण और लागु करने पर सिफारिशें देगा। इसमें चार्टर्ड अकाउंटेंट एक्ट, 1949 के तहत पंजीकृत ऑडिटर्स की जांच करने की शक्ति होगी। नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके गलत उत्तर चुनें केवल 1 केवल 2  1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.16) Consider the following statements regarding the World Customs Organization It is an independent intergovernmental body whose mission is to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of Customs administration. It is the only global organization which defines global standards and procedures for customs clearances. India is a founding member of WCO. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 and 2 only 1 and 3 only 2 and 3 only All of the above Q.16) विश्व सीमा शुल्क संगठन (World Customs Organization) के बारे में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें यह एक स्वतंत्र अंतर सरकारी निकाय है, जिसका मिशन सीमा शुल्क प्रशासन की प्रभावशीलता और दक्षता को बढ़ाना है। यह एकमात्र वैश्विक संगठन है जो सीमा शुल्क मंजूरी के लिए वैश्विक मानकों और प्रक्रियाओं को परिभाषित करता है। भारत WCO का संस्थापक सदस्य है। ऊपर दिए गए कथनों में से कौन सा सही है / हैं? केवल 1 और 2 केवल 1 और 3 केवल 2 और 3 उपरोक्त सभी Q.17) Which of the following is not a feature of New Industrial Policy 1991 Liberalization of Foreign Investment Disinvestment of Public Sector De-Reservation of all Industries of the Public Sector Abolition of Industrial Licensing System Q.17) निम्नलिखित में से कौन, नई औद्योगिक नीति 1991 की विशेषता नहीं है विदेशी निवेश का उदारीकरण सार्वजनिक क्षेत्र के सभी उद्योगों का अनारक्षण (De-Reservation) सार्वजनिक क्षेत्र का विनिवेश औद्योगिक लाइसेंसिंग प्रणाली का उन्मूलन Q.18) The ICEGATE portal is related to which of the following? e-filing services to the trade and cargo carriers and other clients of the Customs Department. Paperless processing and uploading of supporting documents to facilitate trading across borders. Single window interface to facilitate trade. Fast-tracking taxpayer’s grievance redressal. Q.18) ICEGATE पोर्टल, निम्नलिखित में से किससे संबंधित है? व्यापार और कार्गो वाहक तथा सीमा शुल्क विभाग के अन्य ग्राहकों के लिए ई-फाइलिंग सेवाएं। सीमाओं के पार कागज रहित प्रसंस्करण और व्यापार की सुविधा के लिए सहायक दस्तावेजों को अपलोड करना। व्यापार को सुविधाजनक बनाने के लिए सिंगल विंडो इंटरफ़ेस। करदाता की फास्ट-ट्रैकिंग शिकायत निवारण। Q.19) Consider the following statements regarding SFURTI scheme It is being implemented by the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) and the Coir Board. It aims to provide sustained employment for traditional industry artisans and rural entrepreneurs. Choose the correct answer using the codes given below 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.19) स्फूर्ति (SFURTI) योजना के बारे में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें इसे खादी और ग्रामोद्योग आयोग (KVIC) और कॉयर बोर्ड (Coir Board) द्वारा कार्यान्वित किया जा रहा है। इसका उद्देश्य पारंपरिक उद्योग कारीगरों और ग्रामीण उद्यमियों के लिए सतत रोजगार प्रदान करना है। नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें केवल 1 केवल 2  1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.20) Which of the following companies have been accorded “Maharatna” status by the Department of Public Enterprises? Bharat Heavy Electricals Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Choose the correct answer using the codes given below 1 and 2 only 1 and 3 only 2 and 3 only All of the above Q.20) निम्नलिखित में से किस कंपनी को सार्वजनिक उद्यम विभाग द्वारा "महारत्न" का दर्जा दिया गया है? भारत हेवी इलेक्ट्रिकल्स लिमिटेड भारत संचार निगम लिमिटेड तेल और प्राकृतिक गैस निगम नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें केवल 1 और 2 केवल 1 और 3 केवल 2 और 3 उपरोक्त सभी Q.21) With reference to “We Think Digital”, Consider the following statements: “We Think Digital” is Google India’s digital literacy program. The program aims to provide digital literacy training to one lakh men and women across seven states. The seven states are Uttar Pradesh, Assam, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Jharkhand, and Bihar.  Which of the statements given above is/are Correct? 1 and 2 only 1 and 3 only 2 and 3 only 1, 2, and 3 Q.21) "वी थिंक डिजिटल" (We Think Digital) के संदर्भ में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें: "वी थिंक डिजिटल" गूगल इंडिया का डिजिटल साक्षरता कार्यक्रम है। कार्यक्रम का लक्ष्य सात राज्यों में एक लाख पुरुषों और महिलाओं को डिजिटल साक्षरता प्रशिक्षण प्रदान करना है। सात राज्य उत्तर प्रदेश, असम, पश्चिम बंगाल, मध्य प्रदेश, गुजरात, झारखंड और बिहार हैं। ऊपर दिए गए कथनों में से कौन सा सही है / हैं? केवल 1 और 2 केवल 1 और 3 केवल 2 और 3 1, 2, और 3 Q.22) Recently, the MoEFCC has issued a notification that seeks to ban membrane-based water purification systems (MWPS), primarily reverse osmosis (RO), in areas where the water supplied meets norms. Consider the following statements: The problem with RO water purifiers is that during the purification process of water, around 70 to 80% of water is wasted. The de-mineralization of water is not required if the input water has Total Dissolved Salts (TDS) less than 500 mg/litre. Which of the statements given above is/are Correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.22) हाल ही में, MoEFCC ने एक अधिसूचना जारी की है, जो झिल्ली-आधारित जल शोधन प्रणालियों (membrane-based water purification systems- MWPS), मुख्य रूप से रिवर्स ऑस्मोसिस (RO) पर प्रतिबंध लगाने का प्रयास करती है, उन क्षेत्रों में जहां पर पानी की आपूर्ति मानदंडों के अनुसार उपलब्ध है। निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें: RO जल शोधक के साथ समस्या यह है कि पानी की शुद्धिकरण प्रक्रिया के दौरान लगभग 70 से 80% पानी बर्बाद हो जाता है। यदि पानी में कुल घुलित लवण (Total Dissolved Salts) 500 मिलीग्राम / लीटर से कम है तो पानी के विखनिजीकरण (de-mineralization) की आवश्यकता नहीं होती है। ऊपर दिए गए कथनों में से कौन सा सही है / हैं? केवल 1 केवल 2  1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.23) Consider the following statements  All medical equipment would qualify as “drugs” under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940. Medical equipment under this definition include implantable medical devices such as knee implants, CT scan, MRI equipment, dialysis machine, PET equipment, X-ray machine etc.  Which of the statements given above is/are Correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.23) निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें सभी चिकित्सा उपकरण औषधि और प्रसाधन सामग्री अधिनियम, 1940 के तहत "औषधि" (drugs) के रूप में योग्य होंगे। इस परिभाषा के तहत चिकित्सा उपकरणों में प्रत्यारोपण योग्य चिकित्सा उपकरण जैसे घुटने का प्रत्यारोपण (knee implants), सीटी स्कैन, एमआरआई उपकरण, डायलिसिस मशीन, पीईटी उपकरण, एक्स-रे मशीन आदि शामिल हैं। ऊपर दिए गए कथनों में से कौन सा सही है / हैं? केवल 1 केवल 2  1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.24) With reference to Insight Mission, Consider the following statements: InSight is part of Mars Orbiter Mission- ISRO, India  Insight is the first mission dedicated to looking deep beneath the Mars surface.  InSight mission is the first on the surface of Mars to detect magnetic signals with help of magnetometer.  Which of the statements given above is/are Not Correct? 1, 2 and 3 only 1 only 1 and 3 only 2 and 3 only Q.24) इनसाइट मिशन (Insight Mission) के संदर्भ में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें: इनसाइट, मार्स ऑर्बिटर मिशन- ISRO, भारत का हिस्सा है इनसाइट पहला मिशन है, जो मंगल की सतह के नीचे गहराई तक देखने के लिए समर्पित है। इनसाइट मिशन, मैग्नेटोमीटर की सहायता से चुंबकीय संकेतों का पता लगाने के लिए मंगल की सतह पर पहला है। ऊपर दिए गए कथनों में से कौन सा सही नहीं है / हैं? केवल 1, 2 और 3 केवल 1 केवल 1 और 3 केवल 2 और 3 Q.25) Which of the following statements is/are Correct regarding Nipah virus? Nipah virus (NiV) is a zoonotic virus and can also be transmitted through contaminated food or directly between people. Nipah virus was first identified during an outbreak that took place in Malaysia in 1998.  According to the World Health Organization, currently there are no specific drugs or vaccines for Nipah virus.  Select the correct answer using the code given below: 1, 2 and 3 only 1 and 2  only 2 only None of the above Q.25) निपाह वायरस (Nipah virus) के संबंध में, निम्नलिखित में से कौन सा कथन सही है / हैं? निपाह वायरस (NiV) एक जूनोटिक वायरस है और इसे दूषित भोजन के माध्यम से या सीधे लोगों के बीच प्रसारित किया जा सकता है। 1998 में मलेशिया में हुए प्रकोप के दौरान पहली बार निपाह वायरस की पहचान की गई थी। विश्व स्वास्थ्य संगठन के अनुसार, वर्तमान में निपाह वायरस के लिए कोई विशिष्ट दवाएं या टीके नहीं हैं। नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें: 1, 2 और 3 केवल 1 और 2 केवल 2  इनमें से कोई भी नहीं Q.26) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Bilateral Netting’. Bilateral netting allows two parties involved in a swap agreement to net-off their swap positions. Indian financial contract laws do not permit bilateral netting. Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.26) 'द्विपक्षीय नेटिंग' (Bilateral Netting) के संबंध में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें। द्विपक्षीय नेटिंग एक स्वैप समझौते में शामिल दो पक्षों को अपनी स्वैप स्थिति को समायोजित (net-off) करने की अनुमति देती है। भारतीय वित्तीय अनुबंध कानून द्विपक्षीय नेटिंग को अनुमति नहीं देते हैं। सही कथनों का चयन करें केवल 1 केवल 2  1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.27) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Turant Customs’. It is aimed at speedy clearance of goods at air and sea ports, which in turn will benefit ease of doing business in India. It is being launched by ‘The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT)’. Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.27) 'तुरंत सीमा शुल्क' (Turant Customs) के संबंध में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें। इसका उद्देश्य हवाई और समुद्री बंदरगाहों पर माल की त्वरित निकासी है, जिसके परिणामस्वरूप भारत में व्यापार करने में आसानी होगी। इसे 'केंद्रीय प्रत्यक्ष कर बोर्ड (CBDT)' द्वारा लॉन्च किया जा रहा है। सही कथनों का चयन करें केवल 1 केवल 2  1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.28) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Scheme of Asset Management and Debt Change Structure (SAMADHAN)’ Under the scheme, a stressed power company’s debt will be divided into sustainable and unsustainable portions.  The liability of the sustainable debt will be assumed by the new owner and the unsustainable part will be converted into equity. Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.28) ‘स्कीम ऑफ एसेट मैनेजमेंट एंड डेट चेंज स्ट्रक्चर (Scheme of Asset Management and Debt Change Structure- SAMADHAN) के संबंध में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें। योजना के तहत, एक तनावग्रस्त बिजली कंपनी के ऋण को सतत (stainable) और असतत (unsustainable) भागों में विभाजित किया जाएगा। सतत ऋण की देयता नए मालिक द्वारा मान ली जाएगी और असतत भाग को इक्विटी में परिवर्तित कर दिया जाएगा। सही कथनों का चयन करें केवल 1 केवल 2  1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.29) The ‘Investment Cooperation and Facilitation Treaty’ is in news with respect to which of the following countries/organizations? European Union Brazil ASEAN France Q.29) ‘निवेश सहयोग और सुविधा संधि’ (Investment Cooperation and Facilitation Treaty) निम्नलिखित में से किन देशों / संगठनों के संबंध में समाचारों में है? यूरोपीय संघ ब्राज़ील आसियान फ्रांस Q.30) The ‘Single Convention’ which was in news recently deals with Narcotic Drugs Road Safety Women Safety Orphan Drugs Q.30) ‘सिंगल कन्वेंशन’ (Single Convention’) जो हाल ही में समाचारों में थी, किससे संबंधित है नारकोटिक ड्रग्स सड़क सुरक्षा महिला सुरक्षा ऑर्फन ड्रग्स (Orphan Drugs) DOWNLOAD THE SOLUTION ENGLISH HINDI NOTE- Follow this for Comments Mention- Time Taken after solving the Test After the release of Solution Edit your Comment to Mention-  Correct/Incorrect and Score 2 Marks for Correct/0.66 minus for Incorrect. DOWNLOAD THE 60 DAYS PLAN 2020  PRELIMS EXCLUSIVE CURRENT AFFAIRS CLASSES (12 SESSIONS-By Tauseef Sir): STARTING 15 APRIL- JOIN NOW! All the Best! IASbaba  

Apr 21, 2020 RSTV Video

Oil Price War Implications – The Big Picture – RSTV IAS UPSC

Oil Price War Implications Archives TOPIC: General Studies 3: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment Energy Security In News: Global oil consumption is in free-fall, heading for the biggest annual contraction in history, as more countries introduce unprecedented measures to fight the coronavirus pandemic. Travel bans, work-from-home policies, cancelled vacations and disrupted supply chains all mean reduced demand for fuel. As societies respond to the virus, oil demand — already hammered by China’s decision to shut down swaths of the economy — is falling further.  Geopolitically,  Leaders from Russia, Saudi Arabia and the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) announced a production cut of nearly 10 million barrels a day in hopes it would end an ongoing oil price war as oil consumption has plummeted worldwide amid the coronavirus pandemic. U.S. Energy Secretary Dan Brouillette in a tweet called it a "historic deal" that will end "a price war that has caused unprecedented uncertainty in global oil markets." President Donald Trump tweeted that the deal "will save hundreds of thousands of energy jobs in the United States." Reductions of 5m bpd are expected to come from other nations to help navigate the deepest oil crisis in decades. Oil has been “disproportionately hit” by the coronavirus outbreak  Oil prices have been forced downward due to major influences from both the demand and supply sides. The economic impact of the coronavirus outbreak will be “extremely negative” for oil prices, given it is “impossible to shut down a vast amount of demand without large and persistent ramifications to supply.” Oil Price War: The market has had to contend with the twin shocks of the demand destruction caused by the coronavirus pandemic and the unexpected oil price war that erupted between producers Russia and Saudi Arabia (Click on the link under Must Read). The Pandemic: Demand for crude oil and petroleum fuels has fallen worldwide because of the coronavirus pandemic across the world. China, the globe’s largest oil importer and a major driver of global demand, had been the worst affected until now. A global downturn in demand from transportation, not least in air travel, has eroded demand further. Storage issue: The storage is also going to be an issue as there is small and limited spare capacity to contain it – contained within its production infrastructure, which for oil includes pipelines, ships, terminals, storage facilities, refineries, and distribution networks. Employment in the times of Corona: Many oil companies have rushed to cut spending and some producers have already begun putting employees on furlough. Global Policy: The demand shock has become so large and a balanced market would require a coordinated global production cut — a policy which appears impossible at this point, too late to stop the current surplus and far below other initiatives on the agenda right now Must Read: Oil Market meltdown Connecting the Dots: Carbon-based industries like oil today, sit in the cross-hairs as they have historically served as the cornerstone of social interactions and globalization, the prevention of which are the main defense against the virus. Critically comment. Will the coronavirus kill the oil industry and help save the climate? Discuss. What are the factors influencing the pricing of oil? Discuss.

Apr 21, 2020 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 21st April 2020

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 21st April 2020 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Reverse Repo Rate reduced by RBI Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III - Economy  In News: RBI has reduced the reverse repo rate by 25 bps from 4 % to 3.75% recently.  Key takeaways: Previously, the RBI used its repo rate as the main instrument to adjust the interest rates.  Presently, it is making change to the reverse repo rate to set the benchmark. The idea is to discourage banks from keeping surplus funds with itself and from lending their funds to the RBI to make profits.  This practice hurts the economy and starves the businesses that genuinely need funds.  Important value additions: The repo rate is the rate at which the RBI lends money to the banks for short durations.  The reverse repo rate is the rate at which banks lend their money to the RBI. When the economy is growing, the repo rate is the benchmark interest rate in the economy and it also forms the floor rate for all other interest rates in the economy. Since, India’s economic growth has decelerated sharply since last two years and banks are not lending to businesses, because banks are too risk-averse to lend and also, the overall demand from the businesses has decreased.  In order to change this trend, the RBI has cut the reverse repo rate more than the repo twice in the spate of the last three weeks. Study on the gamma-ray flux variability nature conducted  Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III - Science and technology  In News: Researchers from the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), Bangalore, an autonomous institute of the Department of Science & Technology, have conducted the first systematic study on the gamma-ray flux variability nature on different types of blazars. Key takeaways: At the center of most galaxies, there’s a massive black hole which can have mass of millions or even billions of Suns that gather gas, dust, and stellar debris around it due to the force of gravity. As these materials fall towards the black hole, their gravitational energy gets converted to light forming active galactic nuclei (AGN).  A minority of AGN (~15%) emit accurately parallel charged particles called jets travelling at speeds close to the speed of light. These are known as Blazars. Important value additions: Blazars Blazars are AGN whose jets are aligned with the observer’s line of sight.  Some blazars are thought to host binary black holes in them.  They could also be potential targets for future gravitational-wave searches. Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 21st April 2020 Image source: Click here  India ranks top in the list of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) Part of: GS Prelims and GS-I - Society In News: In a global compilation of reports of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) found online, India stands on top of the list, with 11.7% of the total reports followed by Pakistan, which contributes 6.8% of all reports.  Key takeaways: The National Centre for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) urges people to report CSAM found online across the world annually, on their online platform CyberTipline. Three of the top four countries were in South Asia, raising concerns about the online safety of children in the region.  Bangladesh comes in fourth with a share of 3.3%.  Important value additions: The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) It is a private, nonprofit organization established in 1984 by the United States Congress.  NCMEC handles cases of missing or exploited children from infancy to young adults through age 20. The NCMEC operates the CyberTipline which was established by Congress to process reports of child sexual exploitation.  Anyone can make a report to the CyberTipline but reporting is required for certain electronic service providers (ESP) who become aware of the presence of child pornography on their systems.  Miscellaneous  Types of Human Coronaviruses  Till date, seven different types of coronaviruses have been identified that infect humans: 229E: One of the first coronaviruses strains to be described in the mid-60s, possibly by D Hamre and JJ Procknow in 1966. OC43: It was discovered in 1967 according to the Journal of Virology.  NL63 and HKU1: It were first identified in the Netherlands in 2004, probably after it was isolated from a seven-month-old infant showing respiratory symptoms.  SARS-CoV: It was identified in 2003 in China (animal source is not yet known, bats are thought to have given it to other animals, probably civet cats).  MERS: It was identified in 2012 in Saudi Arabia (transmitted by dromedary camels).  SARS-CoV-2: It was identified in 2019 in Wuhan (source not yet known, possibly bats).  (MAINS FOCUS) SOCIETY/ GOVERNANCE Topic: General Studies 1 & 2: Social empowerment; Role of Women & Women’s organisations Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.  Gender in the times of Crisis Context: The traditional gender role that women play affects them uniquely in global crises and thus requires a measured societal & government response What is the experience with regard to gender during crisis? Vulnerability to deaths: Women lack many life skills such as swimming and climbing  Gender insensitive Temporary facilities: Women face hygiene challenges in shelter camps set up post-calamities Difficulties in Post-crisis rehabilitation: Slowdown leaves women with additional wage cuts post crisis especially when pay disparity between genders is a norm. Loss of livelihoods: Women are also engaged in post-calamity care, missing job opportunities.  Issues faced by women during this pandemic Increased Disease vulnerability: According to WHO around 70% of the world’s health workers are women, 79% of nurses are women. Attack on women workers: There are incidents where ASHA workers, who work at the ground level in tracing & tracking epidemic spread, are attacked while on COVID-19 duty, primarily due to fake news/rumours Increased instances of sexual abuse & gender violence during lockdown when men don’t have access to alcohol and thus vent out their frustration on women. Entrenchment of Patriarchy: Even in households where both partners work, during the lockdown, women not only Work from Home but also have additional household work Psychological anxiety: The fear of job loss and reduced income can create mental pressure on women Culture of silence: Hormone-induced depression, Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) pregnancy-related depressive conditions, postpartum depression are some of the health issues that gets intensified during lockdown. This is because both men & women are trained to follow the culture of silence regarding these issues Way Ahead Assigning ASHA workers to specifically address women’s welfare during this pandemic Grievance redressal platforms: Setting up exclusive cells to quickly address domestic violence and women’s health-related issues,  Awareness: Including men in conversations to make them sensitive about women issues Gender-inclusive helplines: When only women attend women distress calls, there is reinforcing of stereotypical ‘care-giver’ role of women. Need to develop a culture of including women’s safety in the planning phase itself irrespective of whatever the nature of the crisis is. Connecting the dots: Measures taken by government regarding women welfare Gender Budgeting GOVERNANCE/ SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY Topic: General Studies 2 & 3: Parliament and State legislatures—conduct of business  Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life.  Online Parliamentary Functioning Context: In the wake of lockdown imposed due to COVID-19 pandemic and the next session of Parliament a few months away, there is an opportunity for holding an online session should the need so arise. Do You Know? For the very first time, 12 MPs of the joint committee on salary and allowances met virtually (online) on 6th April 2020 and recommended 30% reduction in the constituency and office allowances of MPs Unlike other Parliamentary Committees, this committee was set up in 1954 under the Salary, Allowances and Pension of Members of Parliament Act Is Parliament mandated to meet physically? No, Indian parliamentary rules do not require MPs to meet physically at the Parliament House. The only requirement for a duly constituted sitting of a house is that it be presided over by the chairman/speaker or any authorised MP.  On matters which are not apparent in the rules, Chairman/Speaker have the residuary power to decide on them. Importance of Parliamentary Committees The working of these committees ensure that legislature keeps the executive accountable even when the Parliament is not in session These have regained Significance during the lockdown Two committees are scrutinising pending bills on issues related to labour and regulation of personal data.  Both these issues are important and have gained prominence during the ongoing pandemic The Speaker has the discretion to allow the parliamentary committees to meet outside the House or meet virtually so as to ensure accountability in governance What has been the trend in other countries? Across the world, legislatures are using a combination of technology, physical separation and reduced physical presence to continue their work Brazil: Its parliament passed a resolution to work remotely during the public health emergency.  Chile: The Senate has passed a law to allow it to meet remotely using appropriate video conferencing technology.  In Indonesia and Maldives, a sitting of the parliament has happened remotely.  UK has suggested a hybrid model of virtual and physical presence.  Some MPs can participate in certain house proceedings via video conferencing  While few of them can be in the house physically under social distancing guidelines. Merits of Online Parliamentary Proceedings Saves travel time for legislators Saves financial resources spent on housing & travel allowances Works as a role model to adopt digital technologies Allows more time for legislators to interact with their constituency Challenges with regard to Online Parliamentary Proceedings Robust technology which works without much interruption Need for setting up of protocols for ensuring participation Cyber security issues  Inadequate digital infrastructure especially in Tribal & North-East region Connecting the dots: Digital India Programme Issue of Net neutrality (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Note:  Correct answers of today’s questions will be provided in next day’s DNA section. Kindly refer to it and update your answers.  Comments Up-voted by IASbaba are also the “correct answers”. Q.1 With regard to Indian economy consider the following statements: The repo rate is the rate at which the RBI borrows money from the banks for short durations.  The reverse repo rate is the rate at which RBI lends money to the banks. Which of the above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2 Consider the following statements regarding blazars: Blazars are AGN whose jets are aligned with the observer’s line of sight.  Some blazars are thought to host binary black holes in them. Which of the above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3 Which of the following South Asian country tops the list of recently-released global compilation of Child Sexual Abuse Material? India  Bangladesh  Pakistan  Sri Lanka Q.4 With regard to human coronaviruses, which of the following statement(s) is/are correct? NL63 and HKU1 were first identified in Netherland. Middle East Respiratory Syndrome was transmitted to humans from dromedary Camels. Which of the above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 ANSWERS FOR 20th April 2020 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 C 2 A 3 D 4 C Must Read About Pandemic and Centre-State relations: The Indian Express About Politics in Korean Continent: The Hindu About India’s air power leading to Soft power: The Hindu

Apr 21, 2020 Important Articles

IMPORTANT UPDATE: IASbaba’s ALL INDIA MOCK EXAM (FREE) will also be Available in HINDI and Last Day for Registration – 22nd April at 8 PM!

IASbaba’s ALL INDIA MOCK EXAM in HINDI & ENGLISH Dear Students, We have been getting a lot of requests on HOTLINE whether the Mock Exam will be available in HINDI? And the answer is YES !! In order to make it more inclusive, we are keeping the MOCK EXAM BOTH IN  HINDI & ENGLISH. प्रिलिम्स फुल मॉक टेस्ट अब हिंदी में This MOCK EXAM is OPEN FOR ALL (FREE)!!  The Registration for the MOCK EXAM will close at 8 PM on  22nd April , 2020. Hurry up!  Just 1 more day left for the Registration. This is an attempt from IASbaba, to help you at the time of uncertainty. We are keeping THE FIRST ILP/AIPTS FULL MOCK TEST OPEN FOR ALL (FREE). We have tried to set the questions as close as possible to the standards of UPSC and the ALL INDIA RANKING in this test will help you gauge your preparation. This will also provide you a very good warm-up before the final battle so that you can mentally prepare yourself with a positive frame. To REGISTER -> CLICK HERE P.S: Kindly follow BOTH Step1 and Step 2 for Registration.   OTHER INITIATIVES OF IASBABA AT THE TIME OF UNCERTAINTY & CORONA-CRISIS: We are trying our level best to clarify all your conceptual queries on the platform (#ASKBABA) and also through the HOTLINE -> CONNECT WITH BABA: IASbaba’s Dedicated HOTLINE for UPSC/IAS Aspirants NEW Initiative: LOCKDOWN & YOU – Unlock Your Talent & Creativity! -> CLICK HERE For PRELIMS TIPS/STRATEGY (Do’s & Dont’s) by Mohan Sir, IASbaba Founder -> CLICK HERE Prelims Exclusive: CURRENT AFFAIRS CLASSES (12 SESSIONS-By Tauseef Sir): JOIN NOW! 60 Day Programme, 2020: UPSC PRELIMS EXAMINATION 2020: IASbaba's most trusted initiative for PRELIMS – FREE Initiative!   We are happy to do our bit; guiding you through this uncertain phase. As Mentors, this is the least we can do at this point of time from our team. Make sure you make the best use of the initiatives above.   To get Regular Updates from IASbaba, follow- 👉 TELEGRAM Channel - https://t.me/IASbabaOfficialAccount 👉 YOUTUBE  -  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChvbVdio9Wgj7Z3nQz1Q0ZQ 👉 FACEBOOK  - https://www.facebook.com/iasbaba/ Also, SUBSCRIBE to the WEBSITE Below, so that you don't miss out on important posts! Thank You IASbaba